An examination of the formal, ideological, and cultural dynamics of drama, with specific attention to the relationship between methods of literary studies and performance; may involve visiting artists. Topics vary from semester to semester.

This course specifically examines ways in which plays, and other kinds of public performance, from Carnival to Theatre of the Oppressed, participate, shape, and are influenced by postcolonial, decolonial, and anti-colonial narratives and movements. Moving from North America through the politically post-colonial world, we will read a range of English-language plays, as well as “reading” the “texts” of a number of embodied performances. The course combines close readings and analysis of plays and performances with practice-based projects designed to give students a theoretical and practical understanding of the social potential of performance literature.

Repeat Rules

Requirements class fulfills